In extenuation (if pleading guilty, this is a good reason why you did it)

In mitigation (if pleading guilty, this is a reason why the CO should lessen your punishment)

Have witnesses appear on your behalf

On the merits of the offense, OR

As good character witnesses

Submit written matters to the convening authority (e.g. clemency recommendations) after a sentence is announced (see R.C.M. 1105)

If You Refuse Summary Court-Martial

Charges may be dropped,

Administrative action may be taken (page 11 counseling, administrative separation, non-punitive letter of caution, etc.), or

Charges may be referred to a Special Court-Martial. Compare the difference:

Max Punishment: Summary Court-Martial

Max Punishment: Special Court-Martial

Confinement: 30 days (E-4 and below

Restriction: 60 days (E-5 and below)

Forfeitures: 2/3 pay for 1 month

Reduction:

E-4 and below: to E-1

E-5 and above: 1 pay grade

Confinement: 12 months

Forfeitures: 2/3 pay for 12 months

Reduction: to E-1

Discharge: Bad Conduct Discharge (BCD)

Making Your Case: Personal & Character Statements
Before you come in for summary court-martial counseling, think about what you will say and what others might say in your behalf. If you plan to make a statement, start work on it and bring it with you when you come in for counseling. If you plan to ask anyone else to be a witness, notify them and ask them if they are willing to be a witness for you. Here’s some guidance on making statements and preparing character witnesses: